Outlines the current socioeconomic conditions within the United States and explores the effect of these trends on libraries and information services. The resulting obstruction of information mediation is discussed, and recommendations for professionals seeking to maintain their role as information mediators are offered. (58 references) (LRW)

Reports on a study of changing trends in public libraries. Interviews with public library leaders identified five areas of changing emphasis: information technology, community needs, strategic planning, public relations and marketing, and funding. (seven references) (EA)

This article on productivity was commissioned by the White House Conference on Library and Information Services as one of three discussion papers on the conference themes. Three forces that affect productivity are described: (1) new technologies; (2) new values and lifestyles; and (3) the global economy. Future trends affecting information…

Explores the relationship between Public Library Association (PLA) planning and the themes of literacy, productivity, and democracy that were chosen by the White House Conference on Library and Information Services (WHCLIS). Discussion is based on data collected by the Public Library Data Service (PLDS) that examine current library services in…

Three articles discuss (1) the numbers of microcomputers installed in elementary and secondary schools; (2) a distance education project in the Minnesota Extension Service that used a satellite delivery system and integrated it with a computer information network; and (3) the use of facsimile machines for library services. (LRW)

Describes development of a program at the public library in Seaside, California, that offers afterschool homework assistance. Tips on funding, staffing, publicity, services, future plans, and evaluation are provided, and the benefits of this program for latchkey children are considered. (MES)

Describes methods a school librarian can follow to conduct a workshop on social justice for teachers. A workshop overview is presented, steps for planning the workshop are outlined, small group dynamics are explained, suggestions for conducting the workshop are given, and a workshop evaluation form is included. (LRW)

Explores ways in which libraries can enter into partnerships with other libraries, businesses, community agencies, government, and patrons to improve library service. Values and attitudes that are inherent in partnerships are examined, and ways to apply these values to improve partnerships with patrons are suggested. (three references) (LRW)

This special section presents two articles relating to accessing online systems. The first article discusses power availability for portable computers, including batteries and electrical outlets; the second describes two bulletin board systems that provide information about the Internet and its resources for librarians and patrons. (LRW)

Discusses the development of adult literacy services, particularly in libraries, and describes a course developed at San Jose State's School of Library and Information Science that provides education as well as practical training for librarians who work with adult literacy services in libraries. A list of intern placement literacy sites is…

Discusses the similarities of information handling by corporate records managers and librarians, and proposes combining their functions and physical locations into a central information center that would result in more efficient service at less cost. Records management is explained and advantages of a merger are described. (28 references) (LRW)

These two articles examine library activities in Ethiopia. One describes the information and documentation services of the Institute of Ethiopian Studies Library, including its publications, conferences, seminars, and suggestions for improvements; the second article describes Ethiopian libraries prior to 1900, which were primarily church and…

Examines interlibrary loan (ILL) charges for photocopied material at two academic libraries, the University of Arizona and the University of Nevada, Reno. Statistics were reported for separate academic units to determine which were the most active users and which were charged the most, and recommendations are made for dealing with ILL charges.…

Describes the features of the Austin Public Library that made it Library Journal's pick for the 1993 Library of the Year Award. The library's outreach programs, use of total quality management, volunteer program, and the bonds between the library and the city government are covered. (KRN)

Describes the 1992-93 activities of the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) as a year of change to greater visibility and recognition for the organization. Activities are listed under the American Library Association priority areas of access to information; legislation and funding; intellectual freedom; public awareness; personnel…